Super Foods for Women - Slideshow

A woman's body goes through a lot of ups and downs everyday. Whether she is a super home maker or the CEO of a company, running her own business or making a movie, her dietary needs have changed with time. The 12 super foods in this slideshow are for the super woman of today.

Broccoli

Broccoli is a good source of vitamin A, iron, vitamin C, vitamin B, fiber and calcium. And of course, these vital nutrients are necessary for you to be a strong lady. Study shows that broccoli prevents constipation and indigestion. Broccoli is extremely good in preventing heart disease, stroke and several types of cancer. A few Chinese studies show that broccoli can potentially keep breast cancer at bay.

Salmon

Salmon comes loaded with omega-3 fatty acids and healthy cholesterol. It's a must-eat food for all women. Eating salmon is not just good for heart, but the omega-3 does an awesome work in fighting depression, boosting mood and protecting against Alzheimer's and cancer. They are a very healthy food for pregnant ladies since they have some amounts of DHA. They come with ample amount of protein and vitamin D that is good for hair and skin.

Beets

Beets are rich, buttery and sweet in flavor. According to a study of American Heart Association in 2008, it has been proved that these red devils are superstars in bringing blood pressure down. Beets are excellent in combating cancer and inflammation. This vegetable is a rich source of potassium that counteracts the salt in a salty diet. They are high in folate which protects against DNA damage. Studies in England show that beet juice can increase the stamina by 16 percent, making exercise feeling less tiring.

Blueberries

Blueberries are the richest source of antioxidants. They don't just help in preventing early signs of ageing and wrinkles, but they are a great food that can prevent memory loss in the elderly. Scientists in Cornwell University who tried to figure out the antioxidant activity in foods scored blueberries as the best antioxidant. They are just 80 calories a cup, so you can eat them without feeling guilty.

Oats

Oats are a part of everyday breakfast of those who love having a healthy start to the day. They are rich in insoluble fiber that makes you feel full and you won't have to grab some fast food on the way to work. They help in maintaining weight and keep bowels regular. American Heart Association recommends 25 to 30 grams of dietary fiber everyday - easily provided by one bowl of oats.

Walnuts

Eat walnuts to be the woman on top at work. Studies show that walnuts help to boost brain power. Walnuts are rich in proteins, vitamins, minerals and omega-3s that can help lower your cholesterol, help you to sleep better, help you to cope with cancer, prevent heart disease and much more. Studies on animals show how walnuts help to reduce the risk of breast cancer. A handful of walnuts may be enough to keep you free from cancer worries.

Avocados

Yes, avocados are high in fats, but the healthy-monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) in avocados can actually help you lose some belly-fat, a risk factor of heart diseases and some fertility problems. Avocados have high amounts of potassium, magnesium, folate, protein and vitamin B6, E and K that are enough to make it a complete food. In addition to that, they have fiber, and sterols that help lower cholesterol in your body. Just one quarter of an avocado a day is enough to enjoy all these benefits.

Yogurt

Now, which girl doesn't love yogurt! Fat-free Greek yogurt is rich in proteins, probiotics and other microorganisms that help ease irritable bowel. They are low in fat, make you feel full and help you maintain your weight. The probiotics also help in boosting immunity and keep you protected during the flu season. Now that's a super power every super woman needs.

Olive Oil

Without this magic oil, no list is complete. Olive oil has long been linked to heart and longevity, but there are many studies and reasons that show that olive oil is good for your brain too. A study by the Columbia University shows that Mediterranean diet, with olive oil as one of its main ingredient, helps protect against Alzheimer's disease. Studies also show that the compounds in extra virgin olive oil help to prevent breast cancer. Just two tablespoon of olive oil a day can help your heart and health stay healthy.

Dark Chocolate

There is a saying that the food you love, loves you back. The thought of dark chocolates brings a smile on our face. Dark chocolates are rich in antioxidants and help prevent strokes and heart disease. They are loaded with magnesium, manganese, copper, zinc, and phosphorus that are all important for strong bones. Plus, chocolates are believed to hydrate the skin and keep blood pressure in control as well. There is a thing about chocolates; they somehow provide a sensual pleasure that you fail to get from any other food. But here we mean just the dark chocolates with up to 70 percent cocoa.

Steak

There are lot of debate and discussions on how red meat can harm your health and mental well-being. Give all those topics a rest and consume red meat as they are rich in zinc. Zinc helps in building immunity and the high iron content can help fight fatigue and iron deficiency. But go for lean meat and never over-consume red meats.

Tomato

Tomatoes are rich source of lycopene which gradually increases by four folds when it is cooked or grilled. It acts as a sunscreen and eating them cooked can increase the SPF of your skin by four times. The phytophenols in the tomatoes help thin the blood naturally, and hence, are good for your heart. You can pair them up with broccoli and cook to get maximum benefits.